Curriculum


Crestmont offers an integrated curriculum in which one project can provide a venue for exploration in many subject areas. This provides cross-curricular activities around thematic units in science and social studies. Teachers facilitate authentic, real world experiences that reinforce concepts learned in the classroom. Several of the field trips support the thematic units in each classroom.

Language Arts Program

  • Develops skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening through a literature-based program
  • Utilizes small groups to allow for individualized instruction and in-depth discussion in reading
  • Develops a reflective and insightful understanding of what is read, which in turn inspires a lifelong love of reading and learning
  • Emphasizes the expressive, creative, and technical aspects of written language
  • Incorporates the use of reference tools and research techniques
  • Encourages the appreciation and love of words through ongoing projects and discussions
  • Integrates other subjects to provide students with experiences writing across the curriculum
  • Includes public speaking and drama to foster confidence and skills in communication and performance

Mathematics Program

  • Offers a hands-on, developmental approach that is tailored to each child’s individual learning style
  • Emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • Develops strong computation skills and a conceptual understanding of mathematics
  • Encourages strategic thinking through individual and cooperative projects and real-life situations that bring value and purpose to the study of mathematics
  • Emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills, instilling an appreciation for the process of learning mathematics

Science Program

  • Teaches children to engage in the scientific method by posing questions, formulating hypotheses, performing experiments, observing, recording, and building conclusions based on data
  • Engages students in hands-on scientific exploration in physical, life, and earth-sciences
  • Develops ecological awareness through ongoing authentic environmental learning experiences
  • Instills knowledge of the interconnectedness of life, inspiring a lifelong commitment to preserving the planet and empowering children to make a difference

Social Studies Program

  • Encourages the appreciation and celebration of different cultures while developing a better understanding of the similarities and differences among them
  • Teaches students to relate the past to the present and to be proactive about the future
  • Intentionally includes multiple perspectives that empowers students to value and develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others
  • Cultivates the skills necessary to make a positive difference in the world while developing compassion for humanity and a commitment to social justice

Physical Education Program

  • Provides students with a wide range of opportunities for exercise including stretching, strengthening, large and fine motor skills, and cardiovascular
  • Emphasizes true sportsmanship, cooperation, and “team” play, with opportunities to examine competition as a tool for greater challenge and fun
  • Teaches students a variety of games (both noncompetitive and competitive) providing opportunities to reach new levels of body awareness, spatial awareness, flexibility, endurance, and hand-eye coordination
  • Integrates improvisational theater and dance exercise
  • Gives students a structured outlet to have a whole lot of fun

Creative Arts Program

  • Plays a crucial role in the development of the whole child
  • Integrates into the study of literature, science, social studies, math, and writing
  • Provides outlets for individual expression, encouraged by instruction in various media and techniques
  • Incorporates music, movement, theater, and visual art
  • Supports the creative process and personal expression
  • Is an integral part of our community celebrations

Field Trips

  • Students explore destinations throughout the Bay Area and Northern California, including Muir Woods, Año Nuevo, and the Marine Mammal Center, and attend workshops and performances at venues such as SF MOMA, the De Young Museum, Zellerbach, and Lawrence Hall of Science
  • Each class takes an average two field trips each month
  • Older students delve into environmental living history programs on overnight trips